Utilizing Temple Floral Waste to Address the Resource Crunch in the Perfume Industry: A Case Study of Kannauj District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Temples have long served as centers of devotion, where offering flowers is a significant ritual. However, this practice generates substantial floral waste, with renowned temples like Sheetala Chaukiya, Diyawan Mahadev, and Markandeya Mahadev collectively disposing of several quintals of flowers daily in Kannauj district of Uttar Pradesh, India. These discarded flowers are often dumped into water bodies or open pits, contributing to environmental pollution. Addressing this challenge, the present study explores the sustainable conversion of floral waste into Itra (perfume) using various extraction techniques. The study employed a convenience sampling method, gathering data from 500 respondents involved in the perfume industry in Kannauj. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between increased profit and the success of the perfumery industry (r = 0.567, p < 0.01), as well as between financial assistance and business success (r = 0.643, p < 0.01). These findings underscore the potential of floral waste conversion to enhance economic outcomes for stakeholders. The perfume extraction process demonstrated efficiency, supporting entrepreneurship and providing employment opportunities. Additionally, residual floral waste can be repurposed for composting, contributing to sustainable waste management practices. Overall, this study presents an eco-friendly solution to floral waste pollution while promoting economic development through value-added product generation. This approach not only aids in environmental sustainability but also supports socio-economic growth by encouraging local entrepreneurship and reducing waste disposal issues.